Minocin

Minocycline

Common brand names: Minocin, Dynacin.

Dental uses: Minocycline is a broad-spectrum, tetracycline-type antibiotic. It typically is prescribed for up to two weeks for different types of periodontal (gum) diseases, including periodontal disease in adolescents (juvenile periodontitis).

Dosages for dental purposes: The typical adult dose is 200 milligrams for the first dose followed by 100 milligrams every 12 hours for up to two weeks. Minocycline and all tetracyclines must not be ingested with dairy products (milk, yogurt), antacids (Tums, Rolaids, Maalox, Mylanta, Pepto-Bismol), or iron and zinc supplements because these products greatly inhibit the absorption of tetracyclines from the gastrointestinal tract into the bloodstream.

Concerns and possible side effects: Minocycline, like all tetracyclines, has a much higher incidence of side effects — such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea and yeast infections (in women) — than does penicillin VK. Occasionally, minocycline temporarily turns the tongue a black color, a condition known as black hairy tongue.

In addition, minocycline and all tetracyclines should not be prescribed to children under 8 years or to pregnant women, because they can permanently stain the teeth of the growing child or fetus.

Minocycline may produce a permanent grayish color on the gingiva (gums) and teeth in adults. Also, severe sunburn (photosensitivity) can occur in up to 10 percent of patients prescribed a tetracycline if adequate measures of sun protection (avoiding prolonged sun exposure and using sunscreens) are not undertaken.